So, you’re heading to the Buckeye state for the Republican Convention and you just realized that Congress is still in session and you haven’t had a minute to think about your travel to Cleveland in just a few short days. Don’t fear. Fashionably Famous has your back.
I recently had the privilege of talking with two experts when it comes to all things Cleveland, the city that will host the Republican National Convention from July 18th-21st.
Michelle Murphy and Amy Lange are in the know when it comes to what you need to know in Cleveland. They’re leading concierges for the Ritz-Carlton they have both helped me put together a list of all the things Grand Old Party supporters will need to know during the RNC.
I have supplemented their tips with my own thoughts, too.
What is the best method of transportation from the airport?
Michelle and Amy (MA): Taxi or the local light-rail system (RTA)
Fashionably Famous (FF): Regional Transit Authority
What transportation methods do you recommend for getting around Cleveland?
MA: Downtown Cleveland is a walking city but also offers complimentary trolleys that will run every 5 minutes from 7am – 1am. Just look for the decorated signs throughout the city. Uber is popular as well.
FF: I have confirmed that Lyft is also an option in Cleveland.
What salons will be able to take me for a blowout?
MA: Studio Palmieri, open Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
FF: The weather is going to be hot and humid and professional blowout will be a game-changer. That said there is a forecast for some showers so bring a hat or parka, umbrellas will likely not be allowed in the Quicken Loans Arena.
Manicure/pedicure?
MA: Marengo Spa open Tuesday-Friday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
FF: You never know when you might chip a nail waving those Donald Trump for President signs.
If I need a cobbler, where should I go?
MA: Gino’s Shoe Repair 20 minutes away open Monday-Tuesday 10 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. The Italian Cobbler 20 minutes away.
FF: While I encourage comfortable shoes that you can walk (or run) in, I am the first person to say I have broken a heel or two off of shoes on travel and have needed an emergency fix.
If I need emergency alterations, is there someone who can help me?
MA: The hotel has an on premise seamstress available; in addition Saks Fifth Avenue will have a pop-up store in the hotel lobby, and emergency alterations (and after-hours shopping at the larger Saks store in town) are offered to hotel guests during the RNC.
FF: Conventions are a place to eat, drink and be merry. Sometimes a little too much fun leads to alteration emergencies.
What are the best places to shop?
MA: Crocker Park, Beachwood Mall, Legacy Village, and Eton Collection.
FF: I researched this and I can confirm: Cleveland definitely has some great options. I assume there will also be some great Republican themed tchotchkes being sold everywhere.
If I don’t feel well, where is the nearest hospital and/or urgent care?
MA: Hospitals: Cleveland Clinic, Metro-Health, and University Hospitals.
Urgent Care: Plush Care Urgent Care and Concentra Urgent Care.
FF: You really want to make it to Thursday night to see The Donald and Journey. Keep it together so you can avoid stopping at these places.
Where can I find a notary?
MA: The hotel has a notary on staff.
FF: You just never know when you need a notary.
What are your best after-hours recommendations for food?
MA: The Lobby Lounge bar at the Ritz-Carlton and food service has been extended to 4 a.m. nightly during the RNC. The East Bank of the Flats offers many choices.
FF: I also recommend Lara Bars. They are great on the go.
What recommendations for fitness do you have while I am in town?
MA: The hotel has a fitness center located on the 7th floor that you can access with your room key 24 hours a day. Ask the hotel for a jogging map, rent a kayak or jet ski and enjoy Lake Erie or the Cuyahoga River.
FF: Many hotels have fitness centers. I also think there will be A LOT of walking involved in Cleveland and you might get your steps in and then some in without hitting a gym.
If I have an hour or two to explore the city, where do you recommend I go?
MA: University Circle (the country’s 2nd largest congregation of museums, including the Cleveland Museum of Art), Westside Market, Playhouse Square, the 2nd Largest theatre district in the country with the world’s largest outdoor chandelier, Rock’n Roll Hall of Fame + Museum. The Flats, East Bank, recently re-launched.
FF: I am personally going to try to find Lebron.
Do you have any special recommendations or things I might have left off for visitors when they are in Cleveland?
MA: Golf at one of the many award winning golf courses or visit B.A. Sweeties, the largest candy store in America, to select from your favorite childhood candies.
Check out the Glass Bubble Project, where you can watch glass blowing or take a class.
